murphyGlyceryl Alginate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Glycerol Alginate, Alginic Acid Glyceride
Synthetic
Occlusive
Marine
Not Clean
OriginDerived from alginic acid (a natural polysaccharide from brown seaweed) and glycerol, both chemical starting materials. Synthesized through esterification, where hydroxyl groups of glycerol bond with carboxyl groups of alginic acid.
1,2,3-Propanetriol, esters with alginic acid
Form
Powder
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Anti-Inflammatory
Creates protective layer
Controls product thickness
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not Phototoxic
CIR Panel statement found no phototoxicity in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 344)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.5%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2013 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR